New processors and a slimmed-down design.
Lenovo's Miix series of 2-in-1 tablets is getting an upgrade in the middle of its range with the new Miix 520. This detachable 2-in-1 takes after the Microsoft Surface line, though with a few signature Lenovo flourishes.
| Category | Spec |
|---|---|
| Display | 12.2-inch FHD IPS touch display |
| Processor | 8th-gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processor |
| RAM | Up to 8GB |
| Storage | Up to 256GB SSD |
| Rear Camera | 8MP |
| Pen | Lenovo Active Pen |
| Cellular Connectivity | LTE (optional) |
| Security | Fingerprint Reader (optional) |
| Thickness | 9.9mm (without keyboard) |
| Weight | 880g (without keyboard) |
| Battery | Up to 7.5 hours |
On the specs front, the Miix 520 comes with a mix of the latest tech, including the new 8th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, with up to 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of SSD storage. That all drives a 12.2-inch Full HD IPS touch display with support for Lenovo's Active Pen and Windows Ink. This package measures a mere 9.9mm thick and weighs just 880 grams — though that is without the keyboard attached.
Like the previous generation of Miix tablets, the 520 takes after the Surface-style kickstand — a metal panel hinged in the middle of the tablet. But because this is Lenovo, the hinge is a small version of the watchband hinges from the bigger Yoga convertibles. It's a nice look and adds a bit of visual flourish to an otherwise staid design.
As this is a tablet, limited physical connectivity is to be expected. You'll find a single USB-C port (no Thunderbolt 3 here), a single USB-A port, a headphone audio jack, and a power port. That said, the Miix 520 will have an option to add on an LTE radio with a SIM card slot, so the road warrior in you will be satisfied. Also optional is a Windows Hello-compatible fingerprint reader along the side of the tablet. Lenovo's built in a set of far-field microphones that will allow use of Cortana from afar — up to 4m.
As this is a slim and light tablet, some sacrifices were required, most obviously in the battery — Lenovo projects a battery life of 7.5 hours from the Miix 520.
If all this strikes your fancy, know it'll be available in October 2017 in platinum and iron gray colors, with a starting price of $999 in the US, bundled with both the keyboard and Lenovo Active Pen.
Reader comments
Lenovo 2-in-1s get an upgrade in the Miix 520
why power port, why not using the USB-C?
Yeah, that seems silly to me. Or add a second one for charging while using the tablet. Not a huge deal I suppose, but it would be nice to just grab any USB-C cable instead of making sure you have the special power cable at all times.